| The Post-Study Work permit granted by a Tier 1 visa is designed to allow the talented, non-EEA nationals who graduate from UK universities to remain here to work. The Tier 4 Student Visa allows them to come and study at UK institutions, so it is logical that after being granted this opportunity that the UK would want these educated people to work in and add to their economy.
The Post-Study Work visa replaces both the previous International Graduates Scheme (IGS) and the ‘Fresh Talent: Working in Scotland’ Scheme. If successful in gaining this visa, holders will be able to transfer into Tier 2 – the highly skilled workers’ visa.
EA Visas provides a complete range of UK immigration services to help both individuals and businesses to get the best from the Point Based System (PBS) and make sure they choose the right options for their aspirations, so please use our FREE online assessment tool for expert advice.
Eligibility
The Post-Work Study category issues visas for only two years and does not allow candidates to extend their time in the UK under this subdivision. The two-year stay does not count towards UK residency requirements either, so it does not benefit the pursuit of settled status.
The alternatives are that either you leave after this visa expires, or you aim to transfer visas and apply for a Tier 2 visa. For this visa you would be required to gain a sponsor to prove you are wanted for employment and you would need to prove you are a highly skilled individual.
Like other Tier 1 permits, there is a minimum point’s requirement for candidates to achieve. English language must be deemed to be at an acceptable level – either by test or qualification – for approval of the visa. Applicants must also be able to financially support themselves during their stay. A qualification from a UK educational institution must have been achieved to warrant Post-Study status.
Switching to a Tier 1 Visa
You cannot switch from another variant of Tier 1 visa into a Post-Study Work Visa, but you can switch from an existing UK study visa or from a Tier 4 student visa in to this visa. For these changes you would need to submit an entirely new application. Once on this visa, you can switch to another variety of Tier 1 visa, or you can – as previously mentioned – transfer to a Tier 2 visa.
To avoid complications and frustration please use our FREE online assessment tool to help you and your application go smoothly, courtesy of our experienced immigration staff. |
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